Xabi Alonso admits one of Chelsea’s summer signings is ‘frustrated’ right now

Even Pep Chavarria has made his mark when given the opportunity, however it has not been as easy a start for Marco Palestra.

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Marco Palestra is ‘frustrated’ at his injury woes

The Italian was one of the most used players during pre-season, impressing while playing on both sides of defence.

However, an injury has kept him out of the first few weeks of the season, and he has been ruled out of today’s game against Hull City.

Alonso admitted to the Chelsea website that this obstacle has been frustrating for Palestra, although the boss has been quick to remind him he will play a meaningful role in this season.

He said: “He’s quite frustrated after a very good pre-season… But I told Marco, ‘Easy, the season is long, there will be a lot of games, and you will play your role, you will have your minutes’…”

Palestra joined the club at the request of Alonso, after it looked as if he was headed to Inter Milan.

With the Spaniard very keen on the back three formation which he used at Bayer Leverkusen, the Italian fits in perfectly with his pace and ability to both defend and attack.

He will come across an unlikely foe when he is finally ready to make his competitive debut though.

Pedro Neto, who has just been handed a new contract by the club, has taken to the wing-back position with ease.

A front three of Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Joao Pedro was always going to make minutes tough to earn for Neto, however he has found a role where he is thriving so far this season.

Palestra meanwhile has been listed as a potential returnee for Friday’s game against Brentford. If not, we will have to wait until after the international break.

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